When tasked with renovating Resorts World, architects and interiors practice Alexander Owen Architecture (AO) and painting contractor, Bagnalls, turned to PPG Architectural Coatings and its paint brand Johnstone’s Trade for its wide range of colour.

AO was approached to bring new life to the shopping and entertainment destination. After analysing the space, they decided on a large-scale art installation to transform the look of Resorts World. For the final finish, AO wanted to incorporate a subtle sheen to the surface to give the colour transitions fluidity. Additionally, with such a large space to cover and the need for durability due to high footfall, Johnstone’s Trade Eggshell from PPG was specified for this unique project.

With such a large-scale design, it was important for painting contractor Bagnalls that the specified product would not only be easy to apply, keep in line with timescales, but also be a financially viable option. Johnstone’s Trade Eggshell offered both these qualities. Its hardwearing formulation for interior wood and metal surfaces provides a smooth and even surface that is washable for a long-lasting finish, reducing maintenance requirements. Moreover, with a coverage of 20 sq m, the product goes a very long way – a key objective of this project.

The design itself involved a range of over 20 vibrant colours, including neon highlights, which were digitally created by the architecture team. As Johnstone’s Trade Eggshell can be tinted to the wide selection of colours from the PPG Voice of Colour range, it was more than able to accommodate their vision. Working with the architects, PPG’s colour consultant team colour matched to the closest corresponding shades from the palette. These included pinks and purples, such as Kenny’s Kiss, Cleopatra’s Gown, Mystic Iris, and Electric Mint.

Richard Bridges, co-founder of AO Architecture, commented: “One of the key reasons we turned to PPG was because of the wide array of shades in the Voice of Colour range and their expert colour advisory department. The atrium itself was a tricky site in terms of colour performance due to it being flooded with natural light by day and the varying temperatures of artificial light by night. However, with the help of their senior technical consultants, we were able to discuss what we needed from each colour and have samples made up for each shade.

“Having PPG's colour consultant on site as part of the project team was a huge help, and meant that we were able to discuss how the colours behaved within the space and refine the final selection from both a creative and technical perspective.”

Commenting on the completed works, Mark Hopkins, Senior Maintenance Manager at Resorts World, said: “We’re absolutely delighted with the overall result. It’s so bold and we’re especially impressed with the high-quality finish. The newly designed atrium has made such an impact on the overall aesthetic of the building and is a true representation of our identity. It’s become a real talking point for all our customers and something that they have come to associate with Resorts World.”